Psoriasis: How can you help yourself?

1. Slap on the moisturiser. Moisturising creams and ointments that are available from pharmacies can help by making your skin less dry and more comfortable - and if you use prescription creams, preparing your skin beforehand with a moisturiser can help the ingredients to be absorbed. Ask your pharmacist for details.

2. Stop using soap. Soap can dry out your skin, so use a suitable soap substitute or an emollient cream to wash with (as well as to shower and shave with). Again, your pharmacist can recommend a suitable product.

3. Learn to relax. Scientific evidence suggests stress triggers psoriasis or makes it worse in some people - so anything that helps you relax more could help. For instance, studies show that relaxation techniques such as listening to music and meditation can help clear up psoriasis and reduce the urge to scratch.

4. Stop smoking. US scientists writing in the American Journal of Medicine claim smokers are 78 percent more likely to have psoriasis than non-smokers. Experts reckon the toxins in cigarette smoke may affect parts of the immune system thought to cause psoriasis.

5. Avoid alcohol. If you drink, stick to moderate amounts as alcohol can affect your skin and make it dry. Eating a healthy diet and drinking around 1.5 to 2 litres of water a day may also help.

6. Take a holiday. For those who can afford it there are clinics near the Dead Sea in Israel that offer the Dead Sea treatment, which includes bathing in the mineral-rich sea water. To find out more, visit www.dead-sea.net

7. Get support. Visit www.allaboutpsoriasis.org.uk for more information or speak to the Psoriasis Association - 0845 676 0076. You can also chat online to other psoriasis sufferers at www.psoriasis-help.org.uk